Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has warned the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to urgently resolve its internal disputes ahead of the 2027 general elections or risk losing relevance in the country’s political landscape.
Wike made the remarks on Monday during a media interaction at his office in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where he expressed concern over what he described as weak and unfocused leadership within the opposition party.
According to him, the PDP’s inability to manage its internal crises could undermine its chances of returning to power in the next electoral cycle.
“We have a leadership that is not focused and does not know what to do or take suggestions,” Wike said. “If the leadership is committed, it should be able to admit mistakes and take steps to correct them.”
He noted that winning elections requires strategic planning and internal cohesion, warning that without deliberate efforts to rebuild and reposition the party, the PDP may struggle beyond 2027.
“It is not just about taking over government; you must position yourself. If we fail by 2027, are we going to allow the party to die? We should start rebuilding now and make the right decisions ahead of the election,” he added.
The PDP has been grappling with internal divisions since the 2023 general elections and has lost several prominent members, including sitting governors, to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
During the interview, Wike also criticised the PDP National Convention held on November 15 in Ibadan, Oyo State, dismissing it as poorly managed. He accused Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, of seeking excessive control of the party and allegedly securing a court order to ensure the convention went ahead.
READ ALSO
- Labour Party Fixes Date for Presidential Primary, Releases Full Timetable
- Soludo Sworn In for Second Term as Anambra Governor
- Kimpact Partners NYSC to Mobilise Corps Members for Civic Education
Wike and Makinde, once close political allies, have been at odds in recent months over the direction of the party.
The comments followed recent allegations by Governor Makinde, who accused Wike of working to weaken the PDP in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term ambition.
Makinde made the claim on December 23 while addressing journalists at the Government House in Ibadan, where he recounted meetings involving President Tinubu, Wike, and other senior officials.
According to the Oyo governor, President Tinubu had previously asked him to assist in organising the APC in the state, a request he said he declined due to his PDP affiliation.
Makinde further alleged that during one of the meetings, Wike openly offered to “hold” the PDP for President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections, a statement he said raised serious concerns about attempts to weaken the opposition and tilt the country towards a one-party system.
The development has further exposed deepening divisions within the PDP as the party struggles to redefine its role ahead of the next general elections.
About The Author
